Achieving the C1 level in Portuguese is a significant milestone, as it signifies a high degree of proficiency and fluency. At this level, learners are expected to understand and use complex language structures and nuanced vocabulary. To help you on your journey to mastering Portuguese, we’ve compiled a list of 50 essential words you need to know at the C1 level. These words will aid in enhancing your vocabulary and improving your overall communication skills.

1. Conscientizar

To make aware or to raise awareness. This verb is frequently used in discussions about social issues and education.

2. Inaugurar

To inaugurate or to open formally. It is used in the context of opening ceremonies and formal events.

3. Sustentável

Sustainable. A key term in environmental discussions, indicating practices that do not deplete natural resources.

4. Desempenho

Performance. This noun is used in various contexts, from work and school performance to the performance of machines and systems.

5. Abranger

To encompass or to cover. This verb is useful when discussing topics that include a wide range of elements or aspects.

6. Assíduo

Assiduous or diligent. It refers to someone who is consistently hardworking and attentive.

7. Contundente

Forceful or compelling. This adjective describes arguments or evidence that are particularly strong and convincing.

8. Desdobramento

Unfolding or unfolding events. It can also mean the development or repercussions of an event or action.

9. Efêmero

Ephemeral or short-lived. This adjective is used to describe something that is transitory or fleeting.

10. Dissimular

To dissimulate or to conceal. It refers to hiding one’s true feelings or intentions.

11. Frisar

To stress or to emphasize. This verb is often used in both written and spoken language to highlight the importance of a point.

12. Incentivar

To encourage or to incentivize. It’s commonly used in contexts involving motivation and support.

13. Interlocutor

Interlocutor or conversational partner. This noun is essential for discussing communication and dialogue.

14. Prejudicial

Harmful or detrimental. It describes something that causes damage or negative effects.

15. Reivindicar

To claim or to demand. It is often used in contexts where rights or entitlements are being asserted.

16. Resiliente

Resilient. This adjective describes someone or something that can recover quickly from difficulties or setbacks.

17. Sobressalente

Outstanding or remarkable. It is used to highlight something that stands out due to its excellence.

18. Verossímil

Plausible or credible. This term is used to describe something that appears to be true or believable.

19. Zelo

Zeal or diligence. It refers to great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective.

20. Abordagem

Approach or method. This noun is crucial in discussions about strategies and ways of dealing with issues.

21. Ambíguo

Ambiguous. This adjective describes something that can have more than one interpretation or meaning.

22. Despender

To spend or to expend. It is used in the context of time, energy, or resources.

23. Incessante

Incessant or unceasing. This adjective describes something that continues without interruption.

24. Perspicaz

Perceptive or shrewd. It refers to someone who has keen insight and understanding.

25. Proeminente

Prominent. This adjective describes something that is very noticeable or important.

26. Retificar

To rectify or to correct. It is used when making corrections or adjustments.

27. Subjacente

Underlying. This term is used to describe something that lies beneath the surface or is not immediately obvious.

28. Tangível

Tangible. It refers to something that can be touched or is concrete and real.

29. Trâmites

Procedures or formalities. This noun is used when discussing the steps required to accomplish something officially.

30. Vigoroso

Vigorous or strong. It describes something that is full of energy, strength, or vitality.

31. Abrupto

Abrupt or sudden. This adjective describes something that happens quickly and unexpectedly.

32. Desencadear

To trigger or to unleash. It is used to describe the initiation of a sequence of events or actions.

33. Efetuar

To carry out or to execute. It is commonly used in formal contexts when discussing the completion of tasks or actions.

34. Enaltecer

To praise or to exalt. This verb is used when expressing admiration or approval.

35. Imprescindível

Indispensable. This adjective describes something that is absolutely necessary or essential.

36. Imputar

To impute or to attribute. It is used to assign responsibility or blame.

37. Inócuo

Innocuous or harmless. This term describes something that does not cause harm or injury.

38. Interino

Interim or temporary. It describes something or someone that is serving in a temporary capacity.

39. Ostentar

To flaunt or to show off. This verb describes displaying something, often wealth or achievements, in a way that is meant to impress others.

40. Parcimônia

Parsimony or frugality. This noun describes the quality of being very careful with money or resources.

41. Preceito

Precept or principle. It refers to a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought.

42. Primordial

Primordial or fundamental. This adjective describes something that is essential or primary.

43. Prolixo

Verbose or wordy. This term is used to describe speech or writing that uses more words than necessary.

44. Recesso

Recess or break. It describes a period of time when regular activities are suspended.

45. Reiterar

To reiterate or to repeat. This verb is used when emphasizing a point by saying it again.

46. Revogar

To revoke or to repeal. It is used in legal and formal contexts to describe the act of officially canceling something.

47. Sinergia

Synergy. This noun describes the interaction of two or more agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.

48. Sofisticado

Sophisticated. This adjective describes something that is highly developed, complex, or refined.

49. Subestimar

To underestimate. This verb describes the act of undervaluing or misjudging the importance or size of something.

50. Suscitar

To raise or to provoke. It is used to describe causing a reaction or bringing up a question or issue.

Conclusion

Mastering these 50 words will significantly enhance your ability to communicate effectively at the C1 level in Portuguese. These terms cover a wide range of contexts and are essential for sophisticated and nuanced conversations. Remember, expanding your vocabulary is a continuous process, and incorporating these words into your daily practice will help solidify your understanding and usage. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll find yourself using these words with confidence and ease. Boa sorte!